In my extensive experience in sports media, few productions have resonated as deeply as Crave’s series, “Heated Rivalry.” Describing its impact as extraordinary would be an understatement. Just last week, my colleague Dr. Amira Rose Davis pointed out my delay in watching the captivating series, emphasizing its significance as a quintessential Canadian hockey narrative.
“Heated Rivalry,” a production shot, produced, and conceived in Canada with local talent, is based on a book series by Rachel Reid from Halifax. The series portrays the romantic relationship between two gay professional hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, on fictional NHL teams who keep their affair hidden due to the sports industry’s norms. Beyond the series itself, I am intrigued by the ongoing media discussions surrounding it and the societal progress it represents.
Jacob Tierney, the creative force behind “Heated Rivalry,” is a familiar name in Canadian media circles. A successful openly gay actor and producer, Tierney previously contributed to the popular Canadian series “Letterkenny.” The narrative of “Heated Rivalry” focuses exclusively on men’s hockey culture, distinct from the stories of women or non-binary players in the sport.
Despite the acclaim for “Heated Rivalry,” the reality of men’s hockey remains largely conservative and resistant to change. The sport’s lack of inclusivity and diversity contrasts sharply with the progressive themes explored in the series. The NHL’s inconsistent handling of issues like the Pride Tape ban highlights the challenges faced by marginalized groups in the hockey community.
The absence of openly gay players in the NHL underscores the challenges of being authentic in a sports environment that may not prioritize individual expression. The NHL stands alone among professional leagues in not having had a former or active player come out publicly.
“Heated Rivalry” has broken records as Crave TV’s most-watched original series to date, sparking conversations within traditional hockey circles. Mainstream hockey outlets, including the podcast Empty Netters, have actively engaged with the series, dissecting its themes and characters. The visibility of the show has even extended to NHL teams like the Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Bruins, reflecting a growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ narratives in sports media.
The success of “Heated Rivalry” signifies a positive shift towards more inclusive storytelling in mainstream hockey culture.
